June 23, 2026

“I thought it was a gray area.”

We hear a version of this phrase from almost everyone who ends up facing an indictment. The gray area is a psychological blindfold we put on when we want to cut a corner. It’s a rationalization.

An entrepreneur we worked with shared how his wife once anchored him back to reality. When he explained that the nature of his business dealings required in-person conversations that could not be recorded, she told him, “If you’re doing anything that you can’t talk about on the phone, you’re out of your mind.”

If we genuinely trust that Hashem provides our parnassah, there is no place for playing games with the law. Hashem doesn't need clever accounting in order to give us our sustenance.

Nugget: Run the phone test. If you’re uncomfortable discussing your next business deal openly on a phone call, walk away.

I wish you a week of clarity, integrity and peace of mind.

Warmly,

Rabbi Levi Landa

Director, Project 432

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These prevention nuggets provide general perspective about the law and do not constitute legal advice. The law often changes based on jurisdiction. For advice regarding your specific situation, please consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.